51

Three-Phase Transformers Three-phase transformers are used when three-phase power

is required for larger loads such as industrial motors. There are
two basic three-phase transformer connections, delta and wye.
Delta Connections Delta transformers are schematically drawn in a triangle. The
voltages across each winding of the delta triangle represents
one phase of a three phase system. The voltage is always the
same between any two wires. A single phase (such as L1 to L2)
can be used to supply single phase loads. All three phases are
used to supply three phase loads.
The secondary of a delta transformer is illustrated below.
For simplicity, the primary is not shown in this example. The
voltages shown on the illustration are examples. Just as with
a single-phase transformer, the secondary voltage depends on
both the primary voltage and the turns ratio.
480 V 480 V
480 V
480 V
480 V
L1
L3
L2
When current is the same in all three coils, it is said to be
balanced. In each phase, current has two paths to follow. For
example, current flowing from L1 to the connection point at
the top of the delta can flow down through one coil to L2, and
down through another coil to L3. When current is balanced, the
current in each line is equal to the square root of 3 times the
current in each coil.